March and April are good months to head offshore and catch bottom fish like cod, haddock, and wolfish. These three fish are found in cold saltwater in depths of a few hundred feet. For those wishing to catch them too, look to head out on days that have flat seas and light variable winds. Cod don’t like temperature changes and prefer cold temps during the day and warmer temps at night, and because they like…

The epic, 3-day 2014 Bassmaster Classic fishing tournament completed this weekend in Alabama. This “Super Bowl” of bass fishing was a battle of 56 anglers competing for the prestigious title. Simply qualifying to compete in this event is a huge success. I drove over 12 hours to attend my 4th Classic and soaked up as much bass fishing info as possible, even interviewing former Bassmaster Classic Champion, Chris Lane, about fishing with his kids. By…

There are some fishing rigs and lures that might appear just plain odd to the average observer. With multiple hooks, strange configurations or unusual colors, it’s not uncommon for people to look at these rigs and start scratching their heads while thinking, “how in the heck do these things actually catch fish anyway?” Just remember not to judge a rig or lure based on appearance alone. There can be a difference between “angler baits” that…

As I mentioned in my earlier earlier blog the “Super Bowl” of fishing is taking place this week. I’m here in attendance and I see families everywhere! Some experienced anglers, some brand new to fishing. But everyone here is getting a chance to see a different side of fishing and meet some expert anglers. While dining on BBQ sandwiches, baked beans, and potato salad, Chris Lane, 2014 Bassmaster Classic Competitor, and Winner of the 2012…

Just last week I saw a report that shows a dramatic decline in the striped bass For those new to fishing, you may not know the history with the striped bass population. Back in the 1980’s it was a big deal to catch a striped bass. There were bluefish, bonito, cod, and other fish to catch, but stripers were few and far between. With the striped bass population under 5 million fish, conservation was essential. …

In an attempt to communicate the scope, grand spectacle, and popularity of the Bassmaster Classic, it is frequently referred to as the “Super Bowl” of fishing tournaments. This grand 3-day fishing fest will take place in Alabama on Lake Guntersville, February 21-23. By winning one of the 2013 Bassmaster tournaments or placing high enough consistently, a select group of professional anglers achieves their goal to compete in the yearly main event. There are some explanations…

Ever notice how precise anglers are when referring to the weight of a catch? You might hear one of us say something like, “Excuse me, my bass was 6.27 pounds, not 6 pounds!” I’ll bet a dollar to a hole in a doughnut that you’ve heard an angler immediately correct one of his or her fishing buddies when discussing the weight of a fish if the person happened to give a low-ball weight estimate. Now,…

My non-fishing friends (which are few and far between I might add), shake their heads when they look at my side yard. They’ll see my Maritime Skiff center console that I use for fishing. I bought it new 20 years ago, and it’s been worth every penny. Next to the skiff is my duck boat, and I got it used about 15 years ago. Next to the power boats is a Hobie Cat that my…

Some ladies might be lucky enough to have a family member or significant other who is willing to show them the ropes when it comes to fishing. Others might have to work a little harder to find helpful resources or people that can guide them along the way as they learn about the art of angling. If you’re a lady that wants to learn how to fish, but you don’t have a “pro-fishional” in your…

I am a fishing and boating enthusiast. And I don’t have to look far to determine that I am not alone. I constantly notice fishing rods in backseats, outboard motor brands on truck tailgates and rear windows, and license plates with the “jumping fish” upgrade. Here are some ways people show their fishing and boating love: 1) A kayak is always sticking out of the back of the truck, (and grinning all the time). 2) A…